How to stop spam messages on Snapchat

Snapchat appears to be stuck in a sea of rough waters. The photo messaging app was the target of a massive hack that resulted in the exposure of more than 4.5 million usernames and phone numbers. The company later updated the app to allow users to opt out of its "Find Friends" feature, which was previously used to allow others to locate friends using only their phone number.

From the app's camera mode, swipe from left to right, and click on the gear icon in the upper right-hand corner of the screen. On an Android device, scroll down to the Privacy settings, and set the "Receive Snaps From..." option to "My Friends" only.

For iPhone users, scroll down to the "Who Can..." settings and select "My Friends" in the "Who Can Send Me Snaps" options. This will block Snapchat messages sent from anyone who isn't on your friends list.

Screenshot by Dan Graziano/CNET

To opt out of the app's "Find Friends" feature, click on the "Mobile number" option and unlink your username from your mobile number.